New Hampshire MSW Programs
Schools with MSW Programs
Social Work Licensure
New Hampshire Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
New Hampshire Social Work Licensure
The state currently offers two CSWE-accredited BSW programs that prepare students for entry-level generalist practice and advanced standing in MSW programs. Each institution provides unique advantages, from Plymouth State University’s mountain campus setting and intimate cohort sizes to the University of New Hampshire’s research opportunities and extensive field placement network across the seacoast region.
This comprehensive guide analyzes both programs through multiple dimensions—admission requirements, financial investment, curriculum structure, and career outcomes—providing prospective students with the detailed information necessary to make an informed decision about their social work education.
Quick Answer:
New Hampshire offers two CSWE-accredited BSW programs: Plymouth State University and the University of New Hampshire (Durham). Both programs require 120 credit hours including 450+ hours of field education, prepare students for state licensure, and offer pathways to advanced standing MSW programs. UNH provides more research opportunities and urban placements, while Plymouth State offers smaller class sizes and mountain region field experiences. Graduates can expect starting salaries around $50,000 with median earnings reaching $104,770 mid-career.
Comprehensive Program Profiles
University of New Hampshire – Durham
The University of New Hampshire’s BSW program, continuously accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since 1996, stands as the state’s flagship social work education program. Located in Durham, the program serves approximately 150 undergraduate students annually and maintains partnerships with over 200 field placement sites across New Hampshire and southern Maine.
The program distinguishes itself through its integration with UNH’s research initiatives, particularly in areas of child welfare, aging studies, and rural social work practice. Students benefit from the university’s designation as a Carnegie Classification R1 research institution, accessing opportunities to participate in faculty research projects that directly inform social work practice and policy.
UNH’s curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice while maintaining strong connections to New Hampshire’s diverse communities. The program requires completion of a 40-hour volunteer experience during the sophomore year, followed by a 450-hour senior field practicum that can be completed in specialized settings including medical centers, schools, criminal justice facilities, and community mental health organizations.
Plymouth State University
Plymouth State University’s BSW program, serving the White Mountains region since receiving CSWE accreditation in 2001, offers a more intimate educational experience with cohort sizes typically ranging from 25-35 students. This smaller scale enables personalized attention and strong mentoring relationships between faculty and students.
The program capitalizes on its location in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, providing unique field placement opportunities in rural and small-town settings that prepare students for the realities of social work practice in underserved areas. Plymouth State particularly excels in preparing students for work with outdoor and adventure therapy programs, leveraging the natural environment as a therapeutic tool.</
Plymouth State’s integrated cluster learning model encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing BSW students to work alongside peers in psychology, criminal justice, and health education programs on community-based projects that address real social challenges in northern New Hampshire.
Side-by-Side Program Comparison
| Program Feature | University of New Hampshire | Plymouth State University |
|---|---|---|
| CSWE Accreditation | Since 1996 (29 years) | Since 2001 (24 years) |
| Annual Tuition (In-State) | $18,991 | $14,610 |
| Annual Tuition (Out-of-State) | $38,941 | $25,150 |
| Program Size | 150 students | 25-35 students |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 18:1 | 14:1 |
| Field Education Hours | 490 total (40 volunteer + 450 practicum) | 450 hours practicum |
| Field Placement Sites | 200+ partnerships | 75+ partnerships |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive (R1 institution) | Limited |
| Online Options | Hybrid courses available | Limited online offerings |
| Special Programs | Honors program, Study abroad | Adventure therapy, Cluster learning |
Admission Requirements & Application Process
University of New Hampshire Requirements
The UNH BSW program maintains competitive admission standards that reflect the program’s academic rigor and professional preparation focus. Direct admission to the BSW major requires a minimum high school GPA of 3.2, though the average admitted student presents a 3.5 GPA. The university employs a holistic review process that considers academic achievement alongside demonstrated commitment to service and social justice.
Transfer students and current UNH students seeking to declare the BSW major must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and complete prerequisite courses including Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, and college-level writing courses with grades of C or better. The program requires submission of a personal statement addressing motivation for social work study and relevant volunteer or work experience.
Application materials include official transcripts, two letters of recommendation (preferably one academic and one from a supervisor in a human services setting), and completion of the supplemental social work application. The program admits students for fall semester entry only, with priority deadline of February 1 for maximum scholarship consideration.
Plymouth State University Requirements
Plymouth State’s BSW program offers more flexible admission pathways, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and its mission of serving northern New Hampshire’s diverse communities. The program considers applicants with a minimum high school GPA of 2.5, though competitive applicants typically present GPAs above 3.0.
The program values life experience and demonstrated commitment to helping professions, making it particularly welcoming to non-traditional students, career changers, and veterans. Transfer students with associate degrees from New Hampshire community colleges benefit from articulation agreements that ensure smooth credit transfer and can complete the BSW in two additional years.
Required application materials include official transcripts, one letter of recommendation, and a brief essay describing interest in social work. The program offers rolling admissions with entry points in both fall and spring semesters, providing greater flexibility for students balancing education with work and family responsibilities.
Financial Planning & Investment Analysis
Total Program Investment
Understanding the full financial commitment of BSW education extends beyond tuition to encompass fees, books, living expenses, and opportunity costs. For New Hampshire residents, the four-year investment at UNH totals approximately $110,000 including all expenses, while Plymouth State’s total reaches approximately $85,000, representing a $25,000 differential that students must weigh against program features and career outcomes.
Both institutions participate in the New England Regional Student Program, offering reduced tuition rates to residents of other New England states for programs not available in their home states. Additionally, both universities maintain articulation agreements with New Hampshire’s community college system, enabling students to complete general education requirements at significantly lower cost before transferring.
Financial Aid & Scholarship Opportunities
Financial support for BSW students comes through multiple channels. The Federal Student Aid programs provide need-based grants and loans, while both universities offer institutional scholarships specifically for social work majors. The New Hampshire Charitable Foundation administers several scholarships for students pursuing human services careers, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 annually.
Professional organizations including the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) New Hampshire Chapter offer student scholarships and conference attendance support. Many students offset education costs through paid internships and work-study positions in campus and community social service agencies, gaining valuable experience while earning income.
Return on Investment Analysis
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, BSW graduates in New Hampshire can expect starting salaries around $50,000, with median earnings reaching $104,770 by mid-career. This represents a strong return on educational investment, particularly when considering the additional earning potential unlocked through Advanced Standing MSW programs that BSW graduates can complete in just one additional year.
The lifetime earnings differential between high school graduates and BSW-prepared social workers in New Hampshire exceeds $1.2 million, while the job security and benefits associated with professional social work positions provide additional economic value not captured in salary figures alone.
Career Outcomes & Salary Expectations
Employment Landscape in New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s social work job market demonstrates robust growth across multiple sectors. The state employs approximately 2,800 social workers according to 2024 BLS data, with particularly strong demand in healthcare settings, schools, and substance abuse treatment facilities—a critical need given New Hampshire’s ongoing response to the opioid crisis.
Major employers of BSW graduates include Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Catholic Charities New Hampshire, Easter Seals, Community Bridges, and the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services. School districts throughout the state actively recruit BSW graduates for school social work positions, with many districts offering tuition reimbursement for MSW study.
Salary Progression by Specialization
| Social Work Specialization | Entry Level (10th Percentile) | Median Salary | Experienced (90th Percentile) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | $48,520 | $68,340 | $89,760 |
| Child & Family Social Workers | $45,890 | $62,150 | $85,340 |
| Mental Health/Substance Abuse | $47,230 | $65,890 | $88,120 |
| All Other Social Workers | $81,950 | $104,770 | $121,140 |
Career Advancement Pathways
BSW graduates in New Hampshire follow diverse career trajectories. Many pursue immediate employment in entry-level positions while simultaneously applying to MSW programs in New Hampshire for advanced clinical training. The state’s licensing structure permits BSW graduates to obtain Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) certification, enabling independent practice in certain settings.
Common career progression includes 2-3 years of supervised practice, followed by MSW completion and pursuit of clinical licensure (LICSW in New Hampshire). This pathway typically results in salary increases of 40-60% and expanded career opportunities in private practice, healthcare administration, and program management.
Specialization Pathways & Field Education
Field Education Structure
Both programs implement field education as the signature pedagogy of social work education. Students complete their practicum during the senior year, typically structured as two consecutive semesters of 16 hours per week in an agency setting, complemented by weekly integration seminars that connect classroom theory with field practice.
Field placements span diverse settings including hospitals, community mental health centers, schools, correctional facilities, homeless shelters, and legislative offices. Students work under supervision of licensed social workers who provide weekly individual supervision and facilitate professional development through case consultation, skills training, and reflective practice exercises.
Specialized Training Opportunities
While BSW programs provide generalist preparation, both universities offer specialized training through electives and certificate programs. UNH provides certificates in Addiction Studies and Gerontology that complement the BSW degree. Plymouth State offers unique training in adventure-based therapy and rural social work practice, capitalizing on its location and outdoor recreation resources.
Students at both institutions can participate in specialized training initiatives including trauma-informed care workshops, motivational interviewing certification, and crisis intervention training. These additional credentials enhance employment prospects and prepare students for specialized practice areas.
Student Resources & Support Systems
Academic Support Services
Success in BSW programs requires strong academic support systems. UNH provides comprehensive tutoring through the Center for Academic Resources, writing assistance through the Connors Writing Center, and specialized support for students with disabilities through Student Accessibility Services. The social work program maintains a peer mentoring program pairing upper-class students with newcomers to facilitate academic and social integration.
Plymouth State offers similar support through its Academic Support Services, with additional emphasis on supporting first-generation college students and non-traditional learners. The smaller program size enables more individualized academic advising and closer faculty-student relationships that facilitate early identification and intervention when students face academic challenges.
Professional Development Resources
Both programs facilitate professional socialization through student organizations affiliated with the National Association of Social Workers. These groups organize volunteer projects, host professional speakers, coordinate graduate school visits, and facilitate networking with practicing social workers. Annual events include Social Work Month activities, legislative advocacy days at the State House, and regional social work conferences.
Career services at both institutions provide specialized support for social work students, including resume workshops tailored to human services positions, interview preparation for agency settings, and connections to alumni mentors working in various practice areas. Both programs maintain active alumni networks that facilitate job placement and professional development throughout graduates’ careers.
Online & Flexible Learning Options
While both New Hampshire BSW programs primarily operate as traditional on-campus programs, they increasingly incorporate flexible learning options to accommodate diverse student needs. UNH offers hybrid versions of several social work courses, combining online instruction with periodic in-person meetings, though field education requires physical presence in placement agencies.
Students seeking fully online BSW options while residing in New Hampshire should explore online BSW programs from accredited institutions that accept New Hampshire residents. Several programs offer asynchronous coursework with local field placement arrangements, enabling students to complete degrees while maintaining employment and family responsibilities.
Part-time study options exist at both institutions, though extending program completion impacts financial aid eligibility and may limit field placement options. Students typically complete part-time programs in 5-6 years, balancing coursework with employment in human services settings that complement their academic learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a BSW to become a social worker in New Hampshire?
While some entry-level social work positions accept related degrees, a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program provides the strongest foundation for professional practice and is required for Advanced Standing MSW programs. New Hampshire’s LSW (Licensed Social Worker) licensure requires a BSW degree from an accredited program plus supervised experience and passing the ASWB exam.
Can I work while completing my BSW?
Many students work part-time during their BSW studies, particularly in human services positions that complement their education. However, the senior year field practicum requires 16 hours per week (450 hours total at PSU, or 450 hours plus 40 volunteer hours at UNH), limiting work availability. Both programs offer evening and weekend courses to accommodate working students.
What GPA do I need to get into Advanced Standing MSW programs?
Most Advanced Standing MSW programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA in BSW coursework, though competitive programs often admit students with GPAs above 3.3. Strong field evaluations and letters of recommendation can offset marginal GPAs in holistic admission processes.
How do Plymouth State and UNH compare for graduate school placement?
Both programs prepare students well for MSW admission. UNH’s research opportunities may advantage students applying to research-focused doctoral programs, while Plymouth State’s smaller cohorts enable more personalized recommendation letters. Students should contact each program directly for specific placement data.
Are there scholarship opportunities specifically for social work students?
Yes, both universities offer social work-specific scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000 annually. External scholarships through NASW-NH, local foundations, and human service agencies provide additional support. Many agencies offer tuition assistance in exchange for post-graduation employment commitments.
What’s the job outlook for BSW graduates in New Hampshire?
The job outlook is positive with projected growth of 12% from 2022–2032 in New Hampshire’s Community & Social Service occupations. Many students receive job offers from their field placement agencies, highlighting the importance of treating field education as an extended professional networking opportunity. Students should maintain strong performance during field placements and connect with career services for job search support.
Making Your Decision: Next Steps
Choosing between UNH and Plymouth State’s BSW programs requires careful consideration of multiple factors including location preference, learning environment, financial resources, and career goals. Prospective students should visit both campuses, attend information sessions, and speak with current students and recent graduates to gain firsthand perspectives on program culture and outcomes.
The social work profession offers meaningful opportunities to create positive change in individuals’ lives and communities. Both of New Hampshire’s BSW programs provide strong foundations for this important work, with dedicated faculty, comprehensive curricula, and extensive field education networks that prepare graduates for the challenges and rewards of professional social work practice.
For those ready to begin their social work education journey, the next steps include completing applications, securing financial aid, and preparing for the academic rigor and personal growth that BSW education demands. The investment of time, energy, and resources in BSW education yields returns not only in career opportunities and earning potential but in the profound satisfaction of professional service dedicated to social justice and human wellbeing.
2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Child, Family, and School Social Workers, Healthcare Social Workers, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers, and Social Workers, All Other reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
